ASTA Destination Expo 2018 - Sightseeing

Attendees and guests of ASTA Destination Expo may enjoy the following sightseeing tours and visit the most impressive sites in and around Athens, Greece. Tours have been coordinated by the Federation of Hellenic Associations of Travel & Tourist Agencies (FedHATTA).

Cost: $25 (USD) for half-day tours / $50 (USD) for full-day tours
Registration:Online registration for sightseeing tours closes April 6th. Attendees can still register for tours after April 6th by request only. To register, simply add to your cart during registration. Already registered? Visit the Attendee Service Center to sign up. Important Information: Most archaeological sites are not handicapped accessible. Certain tours will only operate based on a minimum number of participants - these are noted within each. All bus tours will depart from the Hilton -- Will advise if departures will be from the hotel's front gate OR from a special rear gate.

HALF-DAY SIGHTSEEING TOURS

Acropolis, Monastiraki & Plaka: The Athens Old Town Tour

Saturday, April 14th / 12:30 PM – 3:45 PM

The tour starts at the Acropolis which is one of the most visited and culturally revered ancient sights in the world. Entering on the south slope of the Acropolis, you’ll visit the Dionysus Sanctuary and Dionysus Theater before you walk up the slope leading to the Acropolis monuments. During your tour, you’ll gain insight into the significance of its historic monuments including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and other significant sights including the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and many more.

Next, we’ll enter the most unique part of the city and discover its tranquil, picturesque and mystic hidden corners, Plaka, known as the Neighborhood of the Gods. For a while, forget the city sounds and get the feeling that you are walking through the alleys of a Cycladic island, however, with a history of over 3.000 years! Anafiotika, Plaka’s hidden gem and all its worth-seeing treasures, will be revealed to you with the help of your guide, while experiencing an unforgettable journey of discovery.

The tour ends at the lively, touristy area of Monastiraki square, where you will discover the Flea Market and lots of souvenir shops.

Our tour guide will lead you through the bustling Athens Central Market, a historic food market unlike any other in Europe. Here, colorful and fragrant food stalls set the stage among animated food sellers, fishmongers and butchers whelping for sales as locals bargain them down. You’ll also walk the city’s quaint spice street, browse through mom-and-pop specialty shops selling local wine, olive oil, cheese or olives, and sample what’s behind the glass counters at family-run delicatessens.

In between each bite, you’ll gain insight into Greece’s fascinating food culture, the evolution of the country’s cuisine and the healthy nature of locally produced, organic ingredients.

Please Note: The minimum participation to run this tour is 10 pax and the maximum is 28 pax.

Flavors of Athens: Fun Food Walking Tour Sold Out

Saturday, April 14th / 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM

A sense-provoking tour with insights into Greek gastronomy and the local food culture.
During this private food tour you will not only explore the streets of Athens but you will also get to taste appetizing treats that locals enjoy as part of their daily routine. You will gain insights into the development of our cooking methods, recipes and culinary traditions.
You will visit dedicated artisans that have perfected their recipes over the decades, as well as specialized food stores sourcing the best products from all over Greece.

A culinary tour would not be complete without a visit to the city’s vibrant central food market where local vendors exhibit their products from across the country. Learn all about the tastes that Athenians cherish and indulge in a bountiful assortment of appetizing sweet and savory treats with our food-wise guide.

Discover Cape Sounion

Saturday, April 14th / 12:45 PM - 4:30 PM

By coach, we'll travel along a beautiful seaside road to southern Attica. Here we can see the remains of the temple of Athena Sounias, which is close to the temple of Poseidon. The archaeological site is unique, as the sea plays the most important role in the scenery.

About: Cape Sounion is the first main harbor of ancient Athens (before Piraeus). It has the second most famous sunset in Greece (behind Santorini island) and holds the location of the important temple of Poseidon.

Please Note: The minimum participation to run this tour is 30 pax.

The Tastes and Myths Of Athens! Mythology & Food Tour Combo Just Added!

Saturday, April 14th / 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM

A four-hour thorough experience around the most important landmarks in the city, coupled with off the beaten path areas to taste an array of delicious Greek specialties along the way! Visit the most important landmarks in the city but also off the beaten path areas, the places of the greatest gastronomic interest - famous among the Athenians as ''the belly of Athens” and taste an array of delicious Greek specialties along the way!

Highlights

Visit your wish list’s #1, the Acropolis, with a fun and knowledgeable guide and take some amazing pictures of the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus – you’ve made it to the best-preserved temple of classical Greece

Discover beautiful, hidden areas of the city and see what everyday life means for Athenians today

(Inclusions: Bus transportation from and to the Hilton by private, deluxe, fully air-conditioned motor coach, all inclusions per itinerary, services of a professional licensed guide lecturer service and a food expert guide)

Please Note: The maximum participation for this tour is 60 pax in four (4) separate groups of 15 persons each.

Acropolis: The Most Famous Monument on Earth

Saturday, April 14th / 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Departing from the hotel at 1:00 PM, participants will enjoy a tour of Athens, combining most of the city's modern and classical sites. This tour includes an overview of the modern city and striking contrasts to the remains of its glorious past.

We'll drive by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament House on Constitution Square and the Panathinaikon Stadium (site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896). This will be a short stop so we can see the views of the Presidential Palace (ex Royal Palace), government buildings and elegant homes. Next, we'll drive along Vas. Olgas Avenue to admire the Roman Temple of Zeus and continue to Panepistimiou Avenue to view the Catholic Cathedral, the Academy, University, National Library. We'll then visit the crowning beauty and glory of Ancient Athens, the Acropolis with its many monuments atop its rocky base, including the awesome Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion with its Porch of Maidens.

About the Acropolis: The Sacred Rock of the Acropolis "the province of the Gods", is a perfect 5th century BC collection of public monuments which stands as a unique Greek testimony. According to the myth, goddess Athena and god Poseidon had to debate in order to win the patronage of the city. Poseidon struck his trident against the ground to spring water, but the goddess won by offering an olive tree.

Please Note: The minimum participation to run this tour is 30 pax.

Greek Spirits Tasting

Saturday, April 14th / 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

A genuine experience of Greek spirits culture and the most authentic way to feel like a true Greek! A mesmerizing journey filled with Greek tastes and aromas.

Be introduced to 6 signature Greek spirits that are closely interwoven with the country’s local products and culinary culture. You will gain knowledge of one of the Greeks’ favorites, Tsipouro, taste the original Ouzo, the unique flavor of Mastic liquor and finish with the refined taste of the world famous Metaxa Brandy. Discover all about the production of the most famous Greek spirits; learn their stories and their unique characteristics while enjoying carefully selected sweet and savory delicacies (meze) which help to bring out the flavors of each spirit. This tour will be guided by a certified Wine & Spirits Professional.

Please Note: The maximum participation for this tour is 24 pax.

FULL- DAY SIGHTSEEING TOURS

Saronic Gulf Cruise To The Islands Of Hydra, Poros And Aegina

Tuesday, April 17th / Departure - 7:45 AM & Return - 7:30 PM

7:45 AM: Transfer by motorcoach from Athens to Flisvos Port and embark on the cruise ship.

8:15 AM: We'll sail to the island of Hydra
Hydra is a favorite of the international jet-set and is beloved by painters, craftsmen, and photographers. It's unique architecture, crystal clear waters, splendid craft & jewel shops, folk art and the island’s traditional means of transport – the donkey, make it one of the last examples of “living Mediterranean history”. In Hydra, you have time at leisure for strolling, shopping or swimming.

Morning: We'll sale to the island of Aegina, passing through the narrow strait separating the Peloponnesian coast from the island of Poros.
Aegina is known for its rich history, inspiring pistachio grove landscapes (the Aegina Port’s lively fish market and colorful floating fruit and vegetable marketplace as well as picturesque seaside villages such as St. Marina with its taverns, traditional shops, and beautiful golden beaches. During our call at one of the ports, you may choose to visit the majestic 5th century BC temple of the Goddess Aphaia (Optional Tour) which is regarded as the best preserved ancient temple in Greece offering a magnificent view of the whole Saronic Gulf. Do not leave Aegina before trying some their pistachio nuts that are widely considered to be the best in the world.

Mid-Day: Lunch is served on board.

Afternoon: A “Traditional Greek Folk Show” with singers and dancers in original costumes form all of Greece who, together with our Officers, Hostesses will entertain and animate you up to the final moment as the ship docks in Piraeus.

7:30 PM: Arrival at Flisvos Port and transfer to Athens.

Please Note: This cruise/tour is not private for ASTA. Other groups will be on-board.

Nemea Wine Region & Argolis Combo Day Trip Sold Out

Tuesday, April 17th / Departure - 8:00 AM & Return - 6:00 PM

This tour is ideal for wine lover and foodies. This sense-provoking tour will give insights into Greek wine varieties and the local wine culture combined with a visit to the atmospheric city of Nafplio.

Get past the impressive Corinth Canal and head south to the Peloponnese peninsula. You will reach Nemea, the most famous wine region of Greece, to start exploring the wines of this popular Greek appellation, famous for its fleshy reds and characterful whites.

Your wine expert guide will accompany you to one of the top wine producers in the area for a winery tour which includes a variety of wine tastings. The wine exploration of Nemea will continue with two more winery visits and more wine tasting.
You will then set off to the picturesque town of Nafplio. A leisurely stroll along the cobblestone alleys will give you the chance to take in the beautiful architecture and to learn about this town’s illustrious past.

Please Note: The minimum participation to run this tour is 2 pax and the maximum is 18 pax.

Acropolis, Flavors and Sounion Combo SOLD OUT

Tuesday, April 17th / Departure - 8:30 AM & Return - 7:00 PM
This tour is ideal for foodies and history enthusiasts. This special full-day combo tour that will let you explore Athens and take in its charm and beauty!
Your day will start with a walk up to the sacred rock of the Acropolis to be confronted by one of the world’s most important structures in history, the Parthenon. In the company of your state- licensed Insider guide you will retrace historical footsteps and lose yourself in the richness of the age-old Greek civilization while learning about the excellent architecture of the Parthenon as well as Dionysus theatre, the temples of Erecthion and Athena Nike, and the Propylaea all located on the Acropolis rock.

You will then descend the Acropolis hill to lose yourself to the cobbled alleys of the old quarter of Plaka, Monastiraki and the modern part of the city. During this tour you will not only explore the streets of Athens but you will also get to taste appetizing treats that locals enjoy as part of their daily routine. You will gain insights into the development of our cooking methods, recipes and culinary traditions.

You will visit dedicated artisans that have perfected their recipes over the decades, as well as specialized food stores sourcing the best products from all over Greece. A culinary tour would not be complete without a visit to the city’s vibrant central food market where local vendors exhibit their products from across the country.

After your food exploration and a delicious lunch you will continue to the second part of your tour with a private and comfortable vehicle. You will have a short city tour so as to admire other important landmarks and go on with the impressive coastline of Attica, offering you amazing views, a ride that will lead you to Cape Sounion where you will enjoy a visit at the Temple of Poseidon

(Inclusions: Full-day tour (10-11hrs), Private services of a State licensed guide and professional archaeologist, Private services of a food-wise guide, Sampling of local beverages and delicacies enough to replace lunch, Athens to Sounion round trip transfer, Entry fees)

Please Note: The minimum participation to run this tour is 2 pax and the maximum is 12 pax.

Delphi Excursion

Tuesday, April 17th / Departure - 8:00 AM & Return - 7:00 PM

Departing at 8:00 AM, we'll drive through Levadia and Arachova (famous for its bright multi colored carpets) until we arrive in Delphi. We'll tour the most popular ancient sites such as the Sanctuary of Delphi, the archaeological museum, and special treasures like the statue Charioteer. Return to Athens will be around 7:00 PM

About Delphi: At the foot of Mount Parnassos, within the angle formed by the twin rocks of the Phaedriades, lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was regarded as the center of the world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, set within a most spectacular landscape, was for many centuries the cultural and religious center and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world and seat of the Pythian Games, the second most important games in Greece after the Olympics, which were held every four years.

Between the sixth and fourth centuries BC, the Delphic oracle, which was regarded as the most trustworthy, was at its peak. It was delivered by the Pythia, the priestess, and interpreted by the priests of Apollo. Cities, rulers and ordinary individuals alike consulted the oracle, expressing their gratitude with great gifts and spreading its fame around the world. The oracle was thought to have existed since the dawn of time. Indeed, it was believed to have successfully predicted events related to the cataclysm of Deukalion, the Argonaut's expedition, and the Trojan War.

Visit of the archaeological site and the Museum where one can see among other archeological treasures, the unique bronze statue of the Charioteer dedicated to Apollo by Polyzalos, the tyrant of Gela, in 478 B.C. when he won the chariot-race at the Pythian Games. This incomparable statue is a representative example of the ''severe'' Attic style, certainly the work of a major artist.

Please Note: If less than 30 pax, this tour will operate as non-private for ASTA (with other tourists). For 30-49 pax, this tour will operate privately for ASTA

Mycenae, Nauplia & Epidaurus (Argolis - Eastern Peloponese)

Tuesday, April 17th / Departure - 8:00 AM & Return - 7:00 PM

Departing at 8:00 AM, we'll drive along the coastal road of the Saronic Gulf to Mycenae where we'll stop to take in this unique archaeological site. We'll then travel through Argos and Nauplia, the first capital of Greece in 1829. After lunch, we'll depart to Epidaurus where tour the famous Epidaurus Theater. Return to Athens will be around 7:00 PM.

About Mycenae: Mycenae 'Rich in Gold', the kingdom of mythical Agamemnon, first sung by Homer in his epics, is the home of the most important and richest palatial center of the Late Bronze Age in Greece. Its name was given to one of the greatest civilizations of Greek prehistory, the Mycenaean civilization.
About Epidaurus: On the headland called "Nesi" at Palaia Epidaurus, the theatre of the ancient city is well-preserved, in the shape it acquired during the latter years of its function. Apart from a few rows of seats, the caveat is made of limestone with porous staircases. Until now, nine cunei with eighteen rows of seats have been excavated, which originally could accommodate about 2000 spectators. All the benches and thrones of the theatre carry inscriptions with the names of the donors while implying a direct relationship of the monument with the cult of Dionysus. The theater is marveled for its exceptional acoustics, which permits almost perfect intelligibility of non-amplified spoken word from the proscenium or scene to all 12,000 spectators, regardless of their seating.

Please Note: If less than 30 pax, this tour will operate as non-private for ASTA (with other tourists). For 30-49 pax, this tour will operate privately for ASTA.

Special Evening Tour
Athens by Night: Food Tour & Wine Tasting Sold Out

Tuesday, April 17th / 8:15 PM - 10:45 PM / Max Participation of 35

As the Athenian sun sets, embark on a truly decadent foray into Greek gastronomy and viticulture. With our passionate and knowledgeable foodie guide discover tucked away eateries, far from the madding crowd, indulge in traditional and contemporary dishes that showcase the very best of Athens’ culinary scene. Your evening ends at a local wine bar where you will learn about Greece’s tradition of viticulture dating back 2,500 years. You taste a variety of indigenous wine varieties with Protected Denomination of Origin (PDO) status in a wine tasting session with an expert sommelier ready to answer your questions. An evening of Athenian enchantment at its best, indulge in a culinary & wine tasting tour that will enrapture the most discerning of foodies.

HIGHLIGHTS
•An exploration of Athenian cuisine and viticulture through the idyllic, magical streets of Athens by night.
•Led by an expert foodie guide discover the history and tradition behind some of Greece’s most beloved dishes and Athens’ most exciting foodie locations.
•A cultural discovery that will blend gastronomy with history ending with a sojourn at a local wine bar known for its impressive array of the very best Greek wines.

Itinerary at a Glance (a full itinerary will be sent prior to tour)8:15 PM Hilton pickup by coach 8:30 PM Arrival at Syntagma Square8:45 – 9:15 PM Arrival at a contemporary restaurant for Greek traditional products tasting9:15 – 9:25 PM Short walk in the historical center
-Participants will have the chance to admire the Athens Cathedral, the illuminated streets of Plaka, the imposing Tower of the Winds, the Library of Hadrian and the liveliness of Monastiraki Square.9:30 – 10:00 PM Arrival at a traditional tavern with live music for Greek traditional recipes tasting10:00 – 10:10 PM Short walk in Thissio
-After a round of excellent food and entertainment, a short relaxing walk will follow featuring the illuminated ancient Agora and breathtaking views of the Acropolis.10:10 – 10:45 PM Arrival at a wine bar in Thissio for a Wine tasting session
- Each wine will be paired with hand-picked accompaniments from local delicatessens. 10:45 PM Pick-up from Thissio and transfer to the Athens Hilton hotel